about what length

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "about what length" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when inquiring about the specific measurement or extent of something, often in a context where length is a relevant factor. Example: "Can you tell me about what length the fabric should be for the dress?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But even once workers get over their angst about what length vacation to take, many grapple with separation anxiety — how often to check in with the office.

The New York Times

Little is known, for example, about what length of stay might reasonably be predicted for a family physician practising in rural or remote locations [ 9].

Human Resources for Health

In the literature review, there is no final conclusion about what length of ascending colon and cecum should be retained, so theoretically it is feasible to conduct cecum shortening which also observes the surgery principle.

BMC Gastroenterology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

I was responding to a question about what lengths I would go to, as a father, should one of my children (I have 17-year-old triplets) develop a life-threatening addiction, all other measures having been exhausted.

The New York Times

Ever since ominous drumbeats started sounding last week, concern had grown not only among Berlusconi's opponents but large parts of Italian society about what lengths he was prepared to go to in order to – in Letta's words – "protect his personal interests".

The Guardian

Intuitively, longer reads are preferable and individual researchers may have arrived at their own conclusions about what lengths were suitable for prokaryote sequencing.

Plosone

Facilitate both groups' discussions, noting which characters each talked about, at what length or depth and the emotion or judgment toward them.

The New York Times

For almost all camps, the price depends on how long you'll be staying, so talk to your folks about that too, and decide what length of time you'd like to go for.

WikiHow

Tells, at some length, about what Mao said to Snow, and the writer's interpretation of it.

The New Yorker

Think about what layer length is right for the shape of your face.

WikiHow

What looked like something resembling a police procedural is actually a fairly complex story about two men (Hugh Jackman and Terrence Howard) and what lengths they will go to find their respective kidnapped daughters after the main suspect (Paul Dano) is released from jail for lack of evidence.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "about what length", ensure the context clearly defines what is being measured. For instance, specify "about what length of rope" or "about what length of time" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "about what length" in contexts where a more specific term like 'duration', 'size', or 'distance' would be more precise and informative. Specificity enhances clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "about what length" functions as an inquiry regarding the measurement or extent of something. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct, and examples showcase its use in contexts requiring specification of dimension or duration.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "about what length" is a grammatically correct phrase used to inquire about the size, duration, or extent of something. While valid, it's less common than alternatives like "approximately how long". As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for neutral contexts, spanning news, science, and general writing. For improved clarity, specificity is key; clearly define what is being measured. Common errors include overly general usage, where more precise terms like 'duration' or 'size' would be more informative. Consider the alternatives "approximately how long" or "around what size" depending on the nature of enquiry.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

approximately how long

Simplifies the phrase to a more direct question about temporal or spatial extent.

regarding what duration

Replaces 'about' with 'regarding' and 'length' with 'duration', focusing on the time aspect.

around what size

Simplified version focusing on the overall dimension, often used informally.

concerning which size

Uses 'concerning' instead of 'about' and 'size' instead of 'length', shifting the focus to overall dimensions.

in relation to what extent

Employs a more formal tone, inquiring about the degree or scope involved.

what's the approximate span

Asks for an estimated range or extent, using more casual language.

as to what measurement

Focuses specifically on a quantifiable dimension or measurement.

regarding the dimensions

Focuses on physical size, with a high degree of formality.

what approximate distance

Focuses on the span between two points.

what estimated size

Refers to a considered opinion or guess regarding the quantity, magnitude, or extent.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "about what length" for clarity?

To improve clarity, consider using more specific terms such as "approximately how long", "around what size", or specifying the object of measurement, like "about what length of cable".

Is it more appropriate to use "about what length" or "approximately how long"?

"Approximately how long" is often more direct and commonly used in everyday language. "About what length" is grammatically correct but can sometimes sound less natural.

When is it suitable to use "about what length" in formal writing?

Use "about what length" in formal writing when you need to inquire about a measurement without being overly precise and when the context is clearly defined. However, consider whether a more specific term or phrasing would enhance clarity.

What are some alternatives to "about what length" that maintain a similar level of formality?

Alternatives such as "regarding what duration", "concerning which size", or "in relation to what extent" offer a similar level of formality while varying the wording and grammatical structure. Each alternative shifts the focus slightly, providing options for different nuances.